School Board
The newly elected School Board at Bailey Road School brings together a team of dedicated and passionate individuals committed to supporting our students, staff, and wider school community.
As a parent with a daughter who is a past pupil and a son currently in Rimu Team, I am personally connected to the school, which reinforces my commitment to its success. Guided by BRS HEART, our focus is on driving the school’s vision and Strategic Plan, ensuring Bailey Road School continues to provide an outstanding learning environment in Mt Wellington.
We are committed to creating a supportive and engaging environment where all students can thrive, develop their potential, and embrace the values of Honesty, Effort, Achievement, Respect, and Togetherness. As Chairperson, I am proud to work alongside this Board to achieve these goals and support our school community in fostering a safe, engaging, and values-driven environment for every student.
Kind regards
Steve Doran
Chairperson
Ray Kelly
Tumuaki - Principal
Watch this space.....
Max Guptill
Deputy Chairperson
Tena koutou katoa. It’s my privilege to serve on the Bailey Road School Board. I have been involved here for the last 24 years, serving on the board since 2006 and I am the current deputy chair.
Our school has great diversity in culture, a warm family atmosphere, and the desire to achieve excellence in all areas. We want to develop the whole child; physically, emotionally, mentally, spiritually and academically. I see our school continuing to give our tamariki many different opportunities to enjoy their learning.
There have been great developments in our school over the years and we are going from strength to strength. We want Bailey Road School to lead the way in education in Mt Wellington, Tāmaki Makaurau, Aotearoa and even the world. My whānau has been connected with this school since the mid 70s. It is a privilege serving as part of a good strong board that is developing our children’s all-round achievement and preparing them to go on to High School and be positive contributors to our society.
Erin Cairney
Board Member
I was elected to the Bailey Road School Board in September 2025. I’m keen to support strong achievement, support the principal and teachers, and help share how amazing BRS is to the wider community.
I work in legal technology, helping organisations use AI responsibly and effectively. I’m also Chair of the LIANZA AI Committee, with a background in libraries and the information sector. I bring experience in information management, communications, and technology, to my role on the Board, and I’m passionate about kids fostering a love of reading.
I live locally and have two children at Bailey Road School in the Rātā and Kōwhai age groups. In my spare time, I enjoy walking our dog, reformer Pilates, music, and reading. Our family loves sport!
Simon Kahika
Board Member
Fakalofa lahi atu
I am 49 years young and proudly of Niuean and Tongan descent. I currently work as a Sales Engineer for a company that manufactures polyethylene pipe and supplies imported structural steel to the New Zealand civil industry.
Bailey Road School has been a big part of our family for many years. Our two boys came through the school, and our youngest daughter is now in Year 8. Many of you will also know my wife, Phillipa, P, or Mrs. Kahika. She’s the friendly face who welcomes everyone at the front office.
Our family has lived in Mt Wellington for many years, and I’m genuinely excited for the opportunity to give back to a school and community that has given so much to us.
Thank you for your support. I’m looking forward to meeting more of you soon!
Malo aupito
Steve Doran
Chairperson
I am currently in my 12th year as a member of the Bailey Road School Board and my fifth year as Presiding Member. During that time, I have been committed to providing strong governance and helping ensure the school continues to deliver the best possible outcomes for our students, staff, and wider community.
Professionally, I am the Business Development Manager and Project Manager for Teamturf, one of New Zealand's leading artificial turf suppliers. I have more than 25 years' experience in retail leadership and operations, including senior management roles such as Country Manager with Kathmandu and The Warehouse Group. This has provided me with extensive experience in strategic planning, financial oversight, governance, and leading high-performing teams.
Outside of work, sport has always been a significant part of my life. I am a former international field hockey player and remain passionate about the positive impact sport has on young people and our community.
Bailey Road School has a special place in our family. My daughter attended the school, and my son is currently in his final year, giving me a strong personal connection and a genuine passion for supporting its continued success.
Originally from Ireland, I still proudly follow Leinster Rugby and the Blues, and I am committed to giving back to a school community that has played such an important role in my family's journey.
Zoe Foster
Staff Representative
Kia ora, my name is Zoe Foster, and I’m proud to be the Staff Representative on the Bailey Road School Board of Trustees. I’ve been part of the BRS whānau for nine years and currently teach in the Year 5–6 team, where I also lead our amazing Kōwhai Team.
As Staff Rep, my goal is to make sure the voices of our teachers and support staff are genuinely heard and considered in the decisions that shape our school. I care deeply about creating a positive, collaborative environment where wellbeing, professional growth, and great teaching are supported and celebrated.
Abbie Gunning
Board Member
Kia ora koutou,
I am a mother of one with a daughter in year 6 and have lived in this neighbourhood for over 20 years. A proud Aucklander, born and raised and currently working as a change manager at Auckland Council.
I’m a keen sports person -both participating and watching (Come on the Warriors!) I spend my downtime enjoying outdoor activities, music and concerts and family friendly events.
I’ve been a dedicated volunteer and member of my hockey club Somerville for over 25 years, also supporting the wider Auckland association in advisory and governance roles.
Along with my experience in communications and stakeholder engagement, I bring practicality, dependability and proactive traits and a side of fun and humour to our board.
I’m passionate about how sports clubs and schools can help create a sense of belonging and fun in a community and looking forward to how we can support our great school to uplift our external profile and provide engaging and fun education
Ngā mihi nui
Michelle Ginders
Board Executive
Watch this space.